This week’s teacher: William Hunt

William Hunt, E-RYT 500, a swami from the Temple of Kriya Yoga, was the director of their teacher training program, 1994 to 2005, and the owner of Oak Park Yoga, 2001-2012. He is currently teaching yoga to all levels at The Yoga Centre at 266 Lake Street in Oak Park. theyogacentreoakpark.com 708-524-YOGA

2. How has yoga changed your life? Yoga has given me freedom and helped me recover from physical and mental setbacks.

3. What is the philosophy you try to instill in your students? I strive to instill greater awareness and confidence in how to move into poses, to establish mindfulness and equanimity while moving into, sustaining and coming out of postures, and to be compassionate with yourself in your practice.

4. What was one of your most profound moments in teaching? I often see people coming into yoga classes carrying mental and physical burdens. Profound moments occur every time I see the transformation that occurs when students are preparing to go home. Their bodies are more fluid and their faces show greater ease.
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5. What do you see influencing or affecting yoga teachers and students in the next five years? Yoga will continue to be an important form of exercise and be recognized by many more people around the world to be a powerful tool for dealing with the stresses of life. Combined with mindfulness and meditation, many people will uncover within themselves loving kindness and wisdom.